Low volatility factor

Low volatility stocks realize comparatively high risk-adjusted returns. The same is true for corporate bonds.

The notion that greater risk pays off in the long run by generating higher returns has been proven incorrect by academic research*. Further studies show that the performance of low-risk stocks does not lag that of the market as a whole. The chart below demonstrates this on the basis of data from a study.

Robeco's approach to investing in low-volatility equities is reflected in its 'Conservative Strategy'. Compared to an ordinary low-volatility strategy, this approach strives to achieve lower transaction costs, reduced risk and extra returns in a market upturn.

Robeco not only selects stocks on the basis of low volatility, but also looks at insolvency risk and Value- and Momentum-driven factors. For example, by taking the Value factor into account in the selection of low-volatility stocks, investors are prevented from paying too high a price.

This is how this strategy differs from that used by low-vol investors who select stocks exclusively on the basis of historically low volatility.

Robeco uses the low-volatility anomaly not only for stocks, but also for bonds, and calls this approach 'Robeco Conservative Credits'. According to this methodology, investments are made consistently in the bonds of companies with a low level of expected risk.

These bonds are characterized by a shorter time to maturity and a higher level of 'seniority' (the order of repayments in the event of default). The bonds are issued by companies with relatively low debt-to-equity ratios.